While COVID-19 has altered how students are obtaining their education, it hasn’t changed their level of need. In fact, it’s added anxiety for many.
A show of understanding and support came recently from Stanislaus State Foundation Board Director Bob Triebsch, a Turlock attorney. Triebsch is a long-time supporter and advisor for many who have contributed to the University.
Upon hearing President Ellen Junn’s report of what students are confronting in the COVID-19 environment, Triebsch made a gift of $5,000 to the Stan State Campus Cares Emergency Fund, a fund originally established with a gift from the California Faculty Association.
As an undergraduate student playing on the freshman football team at UC Davis, Triebsch broke a tooth, and was able to have it capped. Three years later, the cap failed and with very little resources, Triebsch could not afford to have it replaced.
He turned to UC Davis Chancellor, Emil Mrak, whom he knew from his leadership experiences as a student. In the end, the university was able to find emergency funding to help pay for the dental bill.
“So, as you see, I can relate to what Ellen described as what students may be facing with part-time jobs in the food and service industry being curtailed,” Triebsch said.
His gift to the Emergency Fund will help ensure that every Stan State student has the opportunity to access basic living essentials, allowing them to stay focused on their academic journey. The Fund provides immediate financial assistance to Stanislaus State students who encounter temporary financial hardships due to an emergency situation, crisis or catastrophic event. This assistance can be what keeps their academic goals on track.
“The generosity of our board members, donors and alumni is always special and purposeful. Bob’s donation and personal story make real the critical moment many of our students now — and in the future — face,” Lahti said. “We are working to make sure essential resources and services for our students are not disrupted during this challenging time, and Bob’s donation will help us keep that promise.”